Christians in Action (Incorporated 1948)

On April 16, 1948, Christians in Action was incorporated in Compton, California, giving lasting structure to the gospel burden Rev. Lee Shelley had pursued with prayer and courage. In a nation adjusting to the aftermath of World War II, the new mission stood as a quiet answer to unrest: Christ had not stopped calling His people to go, to serve, and to proclaim.

The Compton beginning mattered. Incorporation turned earnest prayer meetings and vision into accountable stewardship—clear leadership, defined purpose, and a platform for long-term work. Yet the heart of the organization was never paperwork; it was obedience. Many ministries are born in excitement, but Christians in Action sought endurance—patient evangelism, careful discipleship, and humble dependence on the Lord for lasting fruit.

Rev. Lee Shelley and the Courage of Obedience

Rev. Shelley’s role is best understood as shepherd-like persistence. The heroism here is not loud or celebrated, but steady: praying when resources were thin, calling believers to sacrificial giving, and encouraging workers to labor where outcomes could not be guaranteed. Scripture frames this kind of faith: “So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” (1 Corinthians 3:7)

Their interdenominational character also reflected a conviction that gospel partnership is possible without erasing convictions. It was cooperation for mission, not compromise of doctrine, aiming to unite believers around Christ’s command and Christ’s church.

Overseas Ministry and National Churches

From this Southern California base, Christians in Action helped establish national churches in nearly two dozen overseas countries. The stated aim was not dependence on outside workers but strong, self-led congregations rooted in Scripture, equipped to evangelize their own communities, and governed by qualified local leadership. That approach echoed the Great Commission: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19–20)

Their story honors steadfast, often unseen service—learning languages, partnering with local believers, and trusting God to build what only He can sustain. In an age that prizes quick results, Christians in Action reminds the church that faithful sowing, done in love, still matters.